Pre-monsoon showers set to pause, temperatures may touch 42°C again

Nagpur: After providing brief relief from the scorching summer heat, pre-monsoon showers are expected to take a pause over the next few days, paving the way for a fresh rise in temperatures across Nagpur and parts of Vidarbha.The recent spells of rain brought down daytime temperatures and offered respite from the intense heatwave conditions. However, with rain-bearing systems weakening temporarily, weather experts expect dry weather to dominate in the short term before fresh pre-monsoon activity develops over the region.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and state authorities have already indicated that the southwest monsoon is unlikely to reach Nagpur and the rest of Vidarbha before June 10. Farmers have been advised not to rush into sowing activities until more favourable rainfall conditions emerge. The normal date of monsoon onset over Vidarbha is June 15. Over the last two years, the southwest monsoon has arrived well in advance but progressed steadily. The region has received good rainfall in the last few years, but this time the IMD has forecast a below-average monsoon.Nagpur remained largely dry on Monday, though temperatures stayed at relatively bearable levels. The city recorded a maximum temperature of just over 40°C. With rainfall activity expected to remain subdued, the mercury may soon climb back to around 42°C.Earlier, fresh western disturbances were expected to bring some rainfall over Vidarbha, and pre-monsoon showers offered relief.Meanwhile, isolated rainfall was reported from several Vidarbha districts, including Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Washim and Yavatmal, on Monday. Weather officials said intermittent localised showers may continue in some areas, but widespread rainfall is unlikely in the immediate future.